Environmental education and teacher training in the 21st century (Original)

Abstract

The research addressed the importance of integrating environmental education in teacher training, in response to global socio-environmental challenges. In a context where sustainability has become an educational priority, this study allowed us to analyze how training in environmental education impacts the pedagogical practices of teachers and the development of socio-environmental competencies in students. The main objective of the research was to analyze and evaluate the current state, as well as the effectiveness of teacher training programs in the adoption of sustainable pedagogical strategies for the promotion of competencies in future educators through environmental education in the training of 21st century teachers, at the State University of the South of Manabí. To do this, a quantitative methodology with a descriptive approach was used, using surveys and statistical analyzes on the adoption of sustainable strategies. The results revealed that 85% of teachers adopted pedagogical strategies based on sustainability, and that 90% of students reported a greater commitment to environmental actions. The most important conclusion highlights that the integration of environmental education in teacher training generates a significant change in the attitudes and practices of future educators, contributing to the development of an educational culture oriented towards sustainability. This study is the result of the Education Career linkage project, titled: Directed tasks and psychopedagogical support to strengthen student learning in Jipijapa Public Basic Education. Phase III 2025.